Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada shut down immigration tests and citizenship ceremonies in March and slowed down services related to permanent residence, only gradually re-opening these programs late last month.
Now, the federal department says due to the impacts of the novel coronavirus pandemic, the office can't process applications normally, nor can it provide accurate processing times.
In addition, the office is prioritizing Canadians trying to return home, vulnerable groups such as refugees, and people who perform or support essential services.
That leaves people like the Wohlgemuth-Belleus family in the dark, not knowing when their claim will be processed.